While on a (rather ill-advised) solo walk in the dark forest, Felix hears a loud “AHOUOUHOU” and quickly hides in a hollow tree trunk before some ferocious wild beasts show up.

Thankfully, a fortuitous Alice-in-Wonderland-esque twist sees him fleeing through the proverbial (and literal) rabbit-hole and meeting a diminutive but savvy ally who devises a clever escape plan for them both.

Originally published in French, this quirky tale is complemented by the author’s expressive and cartoony illustrations, which make for an unexpectedly amusing — rather than scary — adventure that shows how courage and wits can trump brute strength.

Warning: This book may induce a craving for a mug of hot chocolate.